Approach:
Attraction studies - we proposed to develop information on potential attractants of CRB using proven techniques used against other pests. The first is a solid understanding of the pest behavior and ecology; especially as it related to host plants such as coconut. Due to the fact that the pest is currently not established in Hawaii, sutdies will need to occur at a suitable quaranting facility (HDOA or USDA-FS, Volcano) or be carried out where the best is known to occur (Guam). However we suspect kairomones (plant derived volatile chemicals arising from the plant) may serve as important synergist to the aggregation pheromone to elicit flight and/or arrestment behaviors. Identification of these chemicals will be carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In order to determine if the chemicals are detected by the insect we will employ coupled gas chromatography-electroantennogram detection (GC-EAD). Putative identified chemicals will be tested behaviorally in behavior arena such as olfactometers and a behavioral “servosphere” which allows us to measure precise distances and angles of insect that walk towards or from chemicals.
Field testing - Once putative semiochemicals are found we plan to tests these in the field to establish their efficacy under real-world situations. Formulations and/or dispensers for these new semiochemicals will be developed and tested in collaboration with private industry partners who can manufacture the semiochemicals and traps for purchase by the public. (Technology transfer)